Gertrude Dyck, a pioneering Canadian nurse, made her mark in the UAE when she arrived in Al Ain in 1962, long before the country was formed. Over her 38-year career at Oasis Hospital, Dyck delivered thousands of babies, including those of the UAE royal family, and became a beloved figure known locally as Doctora Latifa — a term meaning “gentle, merciful, and kind.”
Her exceptional contributions to the UAE’s healthcare system earned her recognition, including the Medal of Independence of the Third Order, posthumously awarded by the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed in 2009, after Dyck passed away at 75. Canadian ambassador to the UAE, Radha Krishna Panday, highlighted her as a key figure who helped foster Canada-UAE relations. “Dyck was a pioneer in the field of nursing in the UAE,” he said.
Dyck’s legacy extends beyond her nursing career. She was inducted into the Order of Canada for her role in strengthening the bonds between Canada and the UAE, marking her as a key figure in the history of Canadian contributions to the Emirates.
50 Years of Diplomatic Relations
This year marks 50 years of diplomatic relations between Canada and the UAE. To celebrate, the Canadian embassy in the UAE has hosted a range of cultural activities, including a popular treasure hunt with over 150 participants.
The ambassador reflected on the shared values of the two countries, noting similarities in governance, women’s roles in society, and a mutual commitment to inclusivity and tolerance. “Although Canada and the UAE are very different, we both believe in the importance of good governance, inclusivity, and tolerance,” Panday said.
Canadian Contributions to UAE Infrastructure and Economy
Canadians have also left a lasting imprint on the UAE’s landscape and economy. Notable contributions include the design of the Etihad Museum in Dubai by a Toronto-based architectural firm, and the iconic Etisalat buildings in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, designed by a Canadian architect. Additionally, a Canadian firm played a key role in the construction of the Burj Khalifa, overseeing design coordination.
Several Canadian companies have long-standing success in the UAE, including the Canadian Aviation Electronics (CAE), which has operated a flight simulation training centre in the UAE for over 30 years. The joint venture between CAE and Emirates Airlines, Emirates-CAE Flight Training, has been a leader in training world-class pilots and technicians.
Tim Hortons, a popular Canadian coffee brand, has also become a staple in the UAE, further solidifying the strong cultural and business ties between the two nations. Additionally, Canada has been a consistent exporter of agricultural products, including wheat, pulses, and canola, to the UAE for decades.
Since establishing diplomatic ties in 1974, Canada and the UAE have continued to expand their relationship, with strong trade, investment, and cultural exchanges playing a key role in their enduring partnership.
